Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey, is encouraging Iowans to consider selecting an Iowa-grown Christmas tree this season. Not only can this become a part of the family’s holiday tradition, Northey said, it is also a great time to connect with a local farmer and support Iowa’s economy. There are more than 100 Christmas tree farms devoting over 1,500 acres to tree production across the state in this $1 million industry. When harvesting your own tree, remember to measure to select a tree that will fit in your home, wear comfortable, warm clothing and gloves and to recycle your tree after the holidays. A directory of Iowa Christmas tree farms is available on the Iowa Christmas Tree Association website through the “Find a Farm” link.